Crispy, golden chicken bites loaded with savory bacon and tangy ranch – these Air Fryer Chicken Bacon Ranch Bites are a deliciously easy appetizer or snack that will have your taste buds singing! Get ready to savor the perfect balance of juicy chicken, smoky bacon, and creamy ranch in every irresistible bite.
Why You’ll Love This Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Bacon Ranch Bites
These Chicken Bacon Ranch Bites are a flavor-packed, crowd-pleasing favorite that are perfect for any occasion. The air fryer gives the chicken a satisfyingly crispy exterior, while the bacon and ranch add an irresistible richness and tangy creaminess in every bite. Plus, they’re a cinch to make with simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, game day snack, or family-friendly meal, these Chicken Bacon Ranch Bites are sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
You’ll need just a handful of basic ingredients to make these crave-worthy Chicken Bacon Ranch Bites. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thick-cut bacon, ranch seasoning, and a few pantry staples come together for maximum flavor and texture.
- 1 lb – Boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 6 slices – Thick-cut bacon, diced
- 2 tbsp – Ranch seasoning
- 1 tbsp – Olive oil
- 1/2 tsp each – Salt and black pepper
Ingredient Substitutions
- Protein: You can swap out the chicken for turkey or pork. The cooking time may need to be adjusted slightly, but the same delicious flavors will shine through.
- Bacon: Use turkey bacon or plant-based bacon alternatives for a dietary swap.
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Bacon Ranch Bites
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Working in batches if needed, arrange the chicken bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
Step 1: Prep Work
Start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized cubes. Dice the bacon into small pieces. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, bacon, ranch seasoning, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the chicken is evenly coated.
Step 2: Main Cooking Process
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Working in batches if needed, arrange the chicken bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
Step 3: Final Steps/Assembly
Once the chicken bites are crispy and delicious, transfer them to a serving plate or bowl. Serve warm, with extra ranch dressing or dipping sauce on the side for maximum flavor.
Recipe Variations & Tips
- Flavor Boost: For extra flavor, try adding a sprinkle of paprika, garlic powder, or dried herbs to the chicken mixture.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in some hot sauce or diced jalapeños for a spicy twist.
- Flavor Swap: Swap out the ranch seasoning for other flavor profiles, like Italian or Cajun.
- Make-Ahead: To make these bites ahead of time, simply prep the chicken mixture and store it in the fridge until ready to air fry.
Serving & Storage
Serve with: roasted veggies, mac and cheese, or a fresh salad.
Storage: Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Reheat in the air fryer at 400°F for 3-5 minutes, or in the oven at 375°F for 8-10 minutes.
Make-Ahead: You can prep the chicken mixture in advance and store it in the fridge until ready to air fry.
Nutrition Information
Each serving of these Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Bacon Ranch Bites provides a satisfying balance of protein, healthy fats, and bold flavor. With just 200 calories and 12 grams of protein per serving, they’re a delicious and nutritious option for your next gathering or family dinner.
- Serving Size: 5-6 bites
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Protein: 12 g
- Carbs: 2 g
- Fat: 14 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake these in the oven instead of air frying?
Absolutely! If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake the chicken bites in the oven at 400°F for 18-22 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
How do I make these gluten-free?
These Chicken Bacon Ranch Bites are naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to use a gluten-free ranch seasoning mix.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the chicken mixture in advance and store it in the fridge until ready to air fry. This makes them a super convenient option for last-minute entertaining.
How do I reheat leftovers?
For best results, reheat the leftover chicken bites in the air fryer at 400°F for 3-5 minutes, or until crispy and heated through. You can also reheat them in the oven at 375°F for 8-10 minutes.
Can I use turkey or pork instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap out the chicken for turkey or pork. The cooking time may need to be adjusted slightly, but the same delicious flavors will shine through.
Try These Next
- buffalo chicken ranch air fryer bites
- crispy chicken bacon ranch bake
- crispy maple bacon chicken bites with sweet heat glaze
Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Bacon Ranch Bites
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: 🍗 Chicken & Poultry Creations
- Method: Air frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
These crispy air fryer chicken bacon ranch bites are a delicious and easy appetizer or snack. Perfectly seasoned and cooked to perfection, they are sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
– 1 pound chicken breast, diced
– 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/2 cup ranch dressing
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray
Instructions
1.
2. 1. In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken, crumbled bacon, and ranch dressing. Mix well.
3. 2. In another bowl, mix together panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
4. 3. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
5. 4. Form the chicken mixture into small bite-sized balls and coat each ball in the breadcrumb mixture.
6. 5. Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray and place the bites in a single layer.
7. 6. Air fry for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
8. 7. Serve warm with additional ranch dressing for dipping.
Notes
– For extra flavor, consider adding some chopped green onions to the chicken mixture.
– You can also experiment with different types of cheese in the breadcrumb mixture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: chicken bites, air fryer, bacon, ranch, appetizer